Dramatic Rescue of The Torbay Express, 4464 (60019) Bittern. 19th Aug. 2012

Описание: I had initially written-off filming today's Torbay Express because of thick fog and "mizzle". That is until the sun started to break through just as 4464 was due to leave Paignton for the climb to Churston. I therefore decided to hurry down to the beach at Broadsands, a stone's throw from my house, in order to see how a large-wheeled Pacific would tackle the very testing climb in such damp and humid conditions. The sea mist is still hanging around as Bittern rounds the headland and labours over Broadsands Viaduct. The local Class 25 is sensibly added and applies full banking assistance to the A4, suffering virtually zero adhesion, plus 12 coaches, a big load for a Class 25! Things did not look good after another major slip slowed the train to a snail's pace over Hookhills Viaduct and up into the steep cutting. As I strolled back my fears were confirmed when the train suddenly re-appeared back down onto the viaduct after failing to make the summit at Churston Station. A quick dash home for the motorbike quickly got me to Bascombe Road Bridge just in time to see 7827 Lydham Manor, called up from its train awaiting departure in Paignton Station, attach to the rear to get things underway again, making this the second double-banker I have filmed this year!! Some impression of the grade can be seen, compared to the siding on the left, as 7827 disappears around the corner. Eventually, panic over, 4464 shows off its wonderful lines and colour scheme in the sunshine whilst turning at Churston. And finally, in spectacular visibility, we see Bittern heading back to Bristol against a background of Torbay in all its glory. What a day! And something for the passengers to talk about for years to come!!